Author Topic: Ignition timing issue  (Read 3178 times)

dante53

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Ignition timing issue
« on: October 05, 2013, 09:58:13 »
I have a Bosch 51 distributor on my 230 SL and I recently replaced points with a Hot-Spark electronic ignition kit (pertronix clone). The problem is that I cannot get the required 2-4 degrees ATDC at idle (vacuum connected). With anything less that 4-6 degrees BTDC the idle gets too low, even with full idle enrichment of FIP, and the engine would stall. With 6 or even more degrees BTDC the car idles e runs well, but I get 40 degrees advance at 3k RPM which I think is too much.
The battery is new, the coil (Bosch red coil) is new, spark plugs and cables are in good shape
Any suggestion?

Cees Klumper

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Re: Ignition timing issue
« Reply #1 on: October 05, 2013, 15:43:24 »
It may have something similar on my car - when I set the timing to factory specifications, the engine does not run as well as when I adjust it 'by ear'. I think my timing chain is stretched somewhat, causing the timing mark to mis-read by X number of degrees. So I have been setting the timing by feel rather than spec, and I need to replace the timing chain and then check again. I recall Dr Benz telling us he adjusts the timing by feel as well, so I feel somewhat covered   :)
Cees Klumper
1969 Mercedes 280 SL automatic
1968 Ford Mustang 302 V8
1961 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Sprint Coupe 1600
1962 FIAT 1500S OSCA convertible
1972 Lancia Fulvia Coupe 1.3
1983 Porsche 944 2.5
1990 Ford Bronco II

dante53

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Re: Ignition timing issue
« Reply #2 on: October 05, 2013, 17:48:11 »
Hi Cees. That's just what I did, but I notice that my engine is quite reluctant to rev over 4k RPM. The maximum loaded RPM I got is 4,5K but the noise was so high that it I feared to break the engine. I think that this is due to excessive advance at high RPM. Until 3/4K RPM the car runs very well and since I did the linkage tour it's a charme at lower RPM.